New Discovery State Park Campground in Groton State Forest offers specialized accommodations for horse riders at an elevation of 1,100 feet. The forest spans 26,000 acres across seven state parks, creating an expansive network for equestrian camping near Graniteville, Vermont. Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the camping season, with summer daytime temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 45-60°F.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The rail trail connected to New Discovery State Park Campground provides extensive routes for equestrians. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it. Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," notes Rick S.
Water activities for riders: Multiple water access points allow horses to drink and cool off during rides. The campground connects to three major ponds within riding distance. "The park staff was attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency," reports Sarah C. about facilities maintenance at New Discovery.
Winter exploration: For those interested in off-season visits, Hancock Campground in nearby New Hampshire offers year-round access. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," writes Heather B.
What campers like
Private campsites: The wooded sections of New Discovery provide excellent separation between camping areas. "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks. Close enough to the bathrooms too," describes Rick S.
Equestrian-specific amenities: Groton Forest Road Campground offers additional camping options near the same trail system. "My girlfriend and I visited last year for a nice getaway and absolutely loved the park. The spots were spacious with enough privacy between sites," says Reid B.
Water proximity: Camping near water features is highly valued by visitors. "There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate. You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," explains Laura M.
What you should know
Bear precautions: All equestrian campers must follow strict food storage protocols. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," advises Laura M. from Branbury State Park Campground, highlighting a regional concern applicable to all Groton State Forest campgrounds.
Water access limitations: Filling water containers can be challenging. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," explains Laura M. Pack appropriate adapters if you need to fill large containers.
Varying site conditions: Scout your site carefully before setting up. "Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there. Some sites are out in the open grass where you just find a spot within the site that works for you," notes Laura M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple recreation areas are available for children throughout Groton State Forest. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground," shares J L. from Branbury State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest provides excellent wildlife watching chances. "There were squirrels that would spend lots of time throughout the day sending loose the green pine cones and then come down and chew them up. Pretty entertaining except for when they drop them on your tarps," reports Rick S.
Swimming options: Multiple ponds offer swimming opportunities. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," shares Reid B. when describing water activities at nearby Groton Forest Road Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses, reserve sites that accommodate both your RV and trailer. "Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground. There are two main loops, one is more secluded and spaced out than the other," explains Sarah C. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Facility maintenance expectations: Be prepared for occasional facility issues. "My complaint is in regards to the maintenance of the facilities. The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," reports Robin B.
Alternative dump station locations: If facilities are unavailable, "Luckily, we found we could unscrew the head of the hose at the dump station and had no problem filling our tank with potable water," shares Laura M. about creative solutions to water filling challenges.
Legend
